How to Wash Pillows Without Ruining Their Shape While Keeping Them Fluffy, Clean, and Cosy
Pillows are one of those products that enhance the beauty of bedrooms with an organised structure. The softness and comfortable designs attract people’s attention and provide satisfaction during stays in hotels and Airbnbs. Moreover, when guests sleep, the pillows let them rest comfortably and help them release stress. But when it comes to their maintenance, proper washing technique is required. If you dont know how to wash pillows or want professional results, you can contact an expert cleaner like Love2Laundry.
Our laundry and dry cleaning wash your pillowcases with modern supplies and techniques to keep them clean and fluffy. We’ll deliver your pillows on time so that you don’t face delays.
If you want to still do it yourself, then this guide has the steps and some tips to keep your pillows fluffy without any problem.
Why Washing Your Pillows the Right Way Matters
Over time, pillows accumulate sweat, body oils, drool, and dead skin cells, creating an ideal breeding ground for bacteria, dust mites, and other allergens. The accumulation of these allergens can trigger an allergy, exacerbate asthma, and cause such symptoms that your sleep quality may be affected.
Washing your pillows the right way is necessary to keep them durable, safe, and their softness intact. It is important to wash pillows regularly to maintain health and comfort. So, let’s look at some steps and methods to wash your pillowcases properly.
Check the Care Label Before Anything Else
The first step in how to wash pillows is to check the care label. The care label provides very specific handling instructions, such as washing, drying, and bleaching, for the pillow material.
- Some washing symbols tell the pillow should be machine-washed or hand-washed.
- Drying symbols indicate whether it is safe to tumble-dry or air-dry.
- Bleaching symbols show whether bleach can be used without damaging the fabric.
- Care needs vary from one pillow type to another. For example:
- Down or feather pillows should be washed on a gentle cycle with mild detergent.
Prepare Your Pillows for Washing
After knowing and understanding the washing method and requirements for pillows, preparation is essential for how to wash pillows in a way that prevents damage like shrinking and colour fading. To keep your pillows fluffy, soft, and durable, follow these steps for preparation.
- Remove pillowcases, protectors, and covers.
- Inspect for tears or loose seams.
- Pre-treat stains with mild detergent or baking soda solution.
Once you follow these preparations, it will be easy to wash pillows.
Spot Cleaning Tips for Stains
Spot-cleaning treatment for down and fiberfill pillows is an essential step to ensure they are cleaned after washing. The right materials and techniques will easily break up stubborn stains.
So, let’s see how you can use mild detergent or vinegar by following the guidance of professional linen services.
- For makeup stains, blot the area with a clean cloth and treat it with a mixture of mild detergent
- If it’s the sweat stains, treat them properly with a vinegar-and-water cleaning solution.
- Use a mixture of lukewarm water and liquid detergent to spot clean drool marks.
These spot cleaning tips to keep your pillows fluffy will help prevent hurdles and save you time during spot cleaning.
Also Read: Looking for a safe procedure for fluffy towels & crisp sheets? Read our blog for details.
How to Machine Wash Pillows (The Safe Way)
Pillows collect more than just dreams—they trap moisture, body oils, and allergens that quietly build up over time. A proper machine wash helps restore their freshness and fluff, keeping them light and breathable. Follow these simple washing instructions to revive your pillows without losing their shape or comfort.
- Use a front-loading machine (which is gentler than a top-loading machine).
- Wash two pillows at once for balance.
- Select a gentle or delicate cycle.
- Use mild liquid detergent (no bleach).
- Rinse twice to remove soap residue.
Materials Needed
When it comes to learning how to wash pillows, we’ll guide you about the required materials, too. So, if you want to know what materials are needed, here they are.
- Mild liquid detergent (avoid bleach).
- Washing machine (preferably front-loading).
- Dryer balls or clean tennis balls.
- Gentle stain remover (if needed).
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Check the Care Label: Always read the manufacturer’s instructions before washing. Some pillows, like memory foam, shouldn’t go in a machine.
- Loading Evenly: Wash two pillows at a time in order to stabilise the washer.
- Select Gentle Cycle: Use warm water and a mild detergent on a gentle or delicate cycle.
- Give Them an Extra Rinse: An extra rinse cycle helps ensure no soap is left in the pillows.
- Squeeze, Don’t Twist: Never twist to get excess water out; just gently squeeze it out by hand before drying.
Drying Pillows Without Losing Their Shape
Proper drying will ensure the pillows’ loft remains inflexible, preventing mould from developing. It is always recommended to let the pillows dry before use to maintain their fluffiness and freshness, using the correct air-dry settings.
Use Low Heat: Setting the dryer to low heat will help prevent clumping and shrinkage.
Add Dryer Balls: Throw in dryer balls or put some clean tennis balls in closed socks if you want to help fluff the filling.
Check for Dryness: Use a moisture test deep inside before resorting to ensure there is no moisture. Wet spots promote mildew.
How to Keep Pillows Fluffy and Fresh Between Washes
Keeping your pillows clean and airy until their next wash will even help extend their lifespan. These few habits go a long way toward preventing them from falling into oblivion of comfort and freshness.
- Fluff them daily to redistribute the filling and maintain shape.
- Use pillow protectors to absorb sweat and oils before they reach the pillow.
- Air them in sunlight occasionally to eliminate odour-causing bacteria.
- Spot-clean spills immediately to prevent stains from setting in.
Also Read – If you want to know how often should you wash bed sheets? Our blog will guide you with instructions.
How Often Should You Wash or Replace Pillows?
Wash your pillows every 3-6 months to prevent the buildup of sweat, dust, and allergens. Replace pillows every 1-2 years, depending on the material and condition.
Know when it’s time to change your pillows:
- Lumps or flat spots are easy to notice.
- Loss of support or bounce.
- Pillows will not come out clean after washing and will retain odours.
- Yellowing or discolouration.
When to Trust the Professionals
When you see that your routine is getting busier and your washing is compromised, it’s best to contact a professional like Love2Laundry. Our experts know how to wash pillows and offer a cost-effective pricing structure. You can contact us to get more details.
Moreover, we provide convenience with an on-time pickup and delivery service to prevent delays and hurdles. Book now and let our professionals take care of your laundry.
FAQs – How to Wash Pillows
Will washing my pillows ruin them?
If you wash your pillows according to the instructions, there won’t be any damage. In fact, regular cleaning will help maintain the durability of your pillows. Check the label instructions before washing them to wash them appropriately.
Why do pillows turn yellow?
Pillows turn yellow due to sweat, body oils, and skin residues. It causes discolouration and makes your pillows yellow. So, you can use pillow protectors to prevent this outcome.
Should I wash my pillows on hot or cold?
While warm water is best for removing stubborn stains from pillows, the problem is that the fibres are delicate. So, use cold water as it protects the fillings, removes stains, and keeps your pillows durable.
What happens if you never wash your pillows?
If you never wash your pillows, the accumulation of dust, bacteria, and sweat will cause damage and leave odours behind. It’ll cause skin irritation that might harm your health.
Why do down pillows smell after washing?
Down pillows smell after washing because moisture gets trapped in them, but once they’re completely dry, the odours disappear. Remember to dry them on slow heat to prevent the risk of damage and remove the smell completely.
Final Tips for Pillow Care and Longevity
Now that you know how to wash pillows carefully, there won’t be hurdles or the risk of damage. Checking the care label and opting for the right cleaning supplies will keep the process smooth.
Furthermore, following the step-by-step instructions will help you wash your pillowcases with a process suitable for the fabric and offer you good results.
